The Progressive and Socialist Party in Morocco held a press conference on September 25, 2026, to discuss the recent parliamentary elections held on September 23. Party Secretary-General Nabil Benabdallah presented the party's analysis of the election process and results. He noted that the low voter turnout was not surprising to the party, which had previously warned about the need for a political breakthrough to create a more favorable electoral environment.
Benabdallah stated that the Progressive and Socialist Party was one of the first victims of low voter turnout, which affected the party's election results. He also raised concerns about the sudden removal of nearly two million people from the electoral lists, which he said was done without prior notification or opportunity for citizens to re-register. This move was seen as a significant issue by the party.
The party secretary-general also expressed concerns about the delayed announcement of election results and the difficulty in obtaining some electoral documents in a timely manner. These issues, according to Benabdallah, undermined the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. The party's analysis highlighted several key challenges that need to be addressed.
Regarding the election campaign, Benabdallah emphasized that the Progressive and Socialist Party conducted a clean campaign, rejecting the use of money to sway voters and the practice of last-minute candidate nominations. The party's stance on these issues reflects its commitment to fair and transparent elections.
Benabdallah also criticized the phenomenon of "merchants of votes" or "ferrakshia," who offer votes in exchange for money or other benefits. He stressed that the party cannot fight against these practices while also relying on them to secure votes and parliamentary seats. This stance sets the party apart from others that may engage in such practices.
The Progressive and Socialist Party's analysis of the election process highlighted several key issues, including low voter turnout, irregularities in electoral lists, and the use of money in election campaigns. The party's critique reflects its commitment to democratic principles and transparent elections. The party's stance is likely to contribute to ongoing debates about electoral reform.
The party's critique of the electoral process is likely to resonate with many Moroccans who are concerned about the integrity of the electoral process. The Progressive and Socialist Party's emphasis on transparency, fairness, and accountability reflects the need for ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions in Morocco. The party's analysis and recommendations are expected to inform future electoral reforms.
Key points
- The Progressive and Socialist Party criticizes low voter turnout and electoral process irregularities in recent parliamentary elections.
- Party Secretary-General Nabil Benabdallah rejects the use of money in election campaigns and last-minute candidate nominations.
- The party calls for greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process to prevent irregularities and ensure fair elections.
